Overview

When a child is lonely it’s not fun.

When a child is lonely because they have a hard time making friends, that is worse.

When a child can’t make friends because they are “different” (the way they look, walk talk, or behave) that is wrong.

Ability Online provides a safe online space for youth of all abilities/differences to connect for friendship and support. In our online communities there is zero tolerance for bullying. Our amazing peer volunteers model good social skills and help create an atmosphere of positivity, away from all the "noise" found on public social media platforms that care more about numbers than people. Our brand new, mobile friendly and fully accessible platforms provide access to role models and mentors, inspiring content and resources for self care and self improvement.

There are hundreds of thousands of young people across the country with all kinds of disabilities/health challenges who are experiencing social isolation just because they are "different". And we want to reach them.

After 34 years of doing this, we know the impact of our program is transformational. We have helped youth who are non-verbal find their voice in our text based platform. We have helped members improve their social skills to make it easier to make friends offline. With words of encouragement and tons of compassion, we have helped our members build self-esteem and confidence. And by welcoming everyone and being all inclusive, we are breaking down the social stigma associated with having a disability or health challenge, showing others their potential to shine. It just takes one person to believe in you to make a difference.

We are committed to upholding the safety and confidentially for our vulnerable members. We invest heavily in technical security and in providing multiple ways for our members to engage and connect - from lively chat sessions to Wellness Wednesday activities; from shared experiences in “the Journey”, to topical discussions curated by the youth themselves. And we will share our success stories with you! And we hope you will share our stories with others.

Join us in connecting thousands of young people to reduce social isolation and build self-worth. No child deserves to be lonely. No child should be excluded.

By purchasing gift cards through FundScrip, you will be supporting our online programs, helping us reach the most vulnerable young people, at a time when they just need a friend. Show them YOU care.